Teenage Eating Disorders – 5 Step Guide Of How To Help Your Child

By Author: Gareth hoyles
Total Articles: 122
Comment this article

Teenage eating disorders are on the increase and causing anguish in thousands of families. If you suspect your child has an eating disorder, here are 5 steps of what to do and how to handle the situation positively and effectively.

Stay calm

Remember, your child is probably feeling very confused and scared. They will need you to be reassuring and composed.

Ask your child directly

They may have been waiting for you to notice and it may be a relief for them. Be reassuring and non-accusatory. It’s important to remember that an eating disorder is a psychological illness, and your child will not be doing this on purpose.

Listen

Often teenage eating disorders can stem from their environment or life experiences. It may be their way of telling you how worried or upset they are about a problem at school, or a family issue like a bereavement or divorce.

Talk to their school

Many eating disorders in young people stem from bullying. Your child may be a victim of bullying, and their ...
... way of coping is through controlling their food intake and eating behaviour. Speaking with their teachers, or with their friends, may shed light on your child’s behaviour.

Don’t delay in acting

Go to your GP for help. They will be able to assess your child and tell you if there is something wrong. They will then refer you to the right healthcare specialists to help your child get the psychological help they need.

Don’t forget!

Seek your own support – it can be a very worrying time and many carers of children with eating disorders neglect themselves physically and psychologically. It’s important to seek help with any emotions you may be experiencing. You can phone the B-eat Eating disorders helpline on 0845 634 1414 for help and advice.

Remember, that eating disorders are very treatable conditions- the earlier the diagnosis, the stronger the chances of recovery.

For more information about teenage eating disorders and effectiveeating disorders treatment,please go to www.careukeatingdisorders.com, email us at eatingdisorders@careuk.com or call us on 0208 906 0885.